It is not expected to open until around 5.30pm today. Highways England has apologised for the inconvenience.

Officers from Highways England have been working for several hours to release stranded motorists.

The latest update stated: "We are now releasing traffic from the front of the queue through the works lane as well as turning traffic from the rear. Please remain in your vehicles and await further instruction."

If you are diverting off at junction 15 please use the A508 and A5 which will divert you back on to the M1 at J14.